Latest News

Mooring Restrictions for Maidstone River Festival 2026.

Please do not moor in the in the areas in Red unless authorised by the committee to ensure the safety of the event and other boat users. Thank you 

We have some fantastic acts at Coronation Square Stages at Lockmeadow and Brenchley Gardens

No swimming or jumping into the river during the Maidstone River Festival.

Open water can be extremely dangerous, even for strong swimmers. Hidden objects, strong currents, cold water shock, and uneven surfaces can quickly lead to serious incidents.

Cold water shock can happen even on hot days and can affect anyone entering the water unexpectedly.

Please stop and think before taking risks. Protect yourself and your friends.

If you see someone in trouble in the water, call 999 immediately and encourage them to float on their back until help arrives.

We are deeply saddened by the passing of long-time Maidstone River Festival supporter and sponsor, Clive Emson.

A respected businessman, community supporter, and true gentleman, Clive’s contribution to the festival and the wider community will never be forgotten.

Behind every successful Maidstone River Festival is a team of dedicated volunteers working tirelessly behind the scenes.

This week we are shining a spotlight on the committee members who give their time throughout the year to help make the festival possible for our community.

Keep an eye out for our special thank you post.

Supporting the moments that matter. The Firmin Family help bring the festival to life year after year!

Discover what makes the Maidstone River Festival unique. From live music to cultural celebration, it brings the whole community together.

You know the music. The Raft Race. The fireworks.

Now help keep it going.

Support the Maidstone River Festival today

Save the date: Saturday 25 July, Maidstone River Festival is back, and this year it’s a silver celebration 

Mooring Restrictions Maidstone River Festival

Firework Warning - Friendly Notice for Pet Owners & Firework-Sensitive Individuals

A Big Thank You! To everyone who is helping bring the festival to life!

Guide to Public Toilets in Maidstone that can be used for the River Festival.

Find out more about this years acts performing in Coronation Square Stages at Lockmeadow

Maidstone River Festival 2025 - A Magical Celebration Awaits!

Firmin Family Fireworks Spectacular display

Take a look at some of the Key events on the River for 2024

An air-raid siren sounds the warning.. Find out details of the Air Raid Siren sounding during the Festival

Want to know what else is happening in Kent? Look no further than What's on in Kent!

New Maidstone River Festival Logo for 2024 - Find out more

We are rocking the River Festival this year with an amazing line up of talented local acts. 

Do you, your company or charity have what it takes to build an award winning raft and sail at speed along the river on Saturday 29th July to steal the 2023 title?

Would you like to join our line up of bands, musicians and performers this year to showcase yourself and be part of something amazing for the community of Maidstone?

We have another treat on River Festival day next Saturday 30th. July. The owner of the number 26 Corporation Bus will be offering free bus rides from Archbishop's Palace up Fairmeadow and back from 12-4.

Get involved in creating a great photo gallery of the 2022 River Festival and there's a prize for the best photo submitted!

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Steam Punks Festival at Maidstone Museum from 10am.

Rafts come in all shapes and sizes! Find out more about out raft race here...

Less than 3 weeks until Maidstone River Festival's raft race!

Maidstone River Festival is back, and with it comes the annual Raft Race (kindly sponsored by Clive Emson Auctioneers) – in aid of Heart of Kent Hospice...

Enter our Teddy Brigade competition today!

Rafters from last year's River Festival raised £750 for the Heart of Kent Hospice...

A survey of visitors revealed a £36,340 boost to the coffers of local businesses over Maidstone River Festival weekend.

Graham Clarke is a Maidstone based artist, author, illustrator and humorist who has provided some wonderful pieces of work for the Maidstone River Festival over the years. There is still a chance to visit his studio in July.